Best Time to Visit Vietnam and Cambodia: When & What to Expect
Vietnam and Cambodia lie in the tropical climate zone and share numerous similarities in their weather patterns. As a result, the best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia often overlaps, providing you a great chance to immerse in the vibrant beauty of both countries at the same time.
Below is a recommendation on the best time of year to visit Vietnam and Cambodia, to help you plan your trip to these beautiful Southeast Asian countries.
Best Time To Travel To Vietnam And Cambodia: February To April
The best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia is from February to April, as the weather during these months is calm and beautiful, allowing you to have the most satisfying experience in both countries.
Between February and April, the weather is cool and clear in Northern and Central Vietnam. Meanwhile, in Southern Vietnam and Cambodia, it would be hotter but the temperature does not vary much. Besides, the chance of rain remains low to medium in all areas. Drizzles could set in sometimes with cool breezes and fresh air. Plus, storms have almost no chance to occur.
February To April Is The Dry Season In Both Vietnam And Cambodia
Such weather conditions are favorable for nearly all activities in Vietnam and Cambodia (such as sightseeing, trekking, beach bathing, etc.). In addition, minor temperature differences among regions and a low chance of storms would help you avoid heat-related illnesses, transport delays, or tour cancellations.
Favorable Weather Would Make It Convenient To Travel
Things To Expect During The Best Time To Go To Vietnam And Cambodia
Besides excellent weather, a wide range of activities and festivals is also the reason why February to April is the best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia. During this time, you would have a chance to enjoy breathtaking landscapes, interesting outdoor activities, local festivals, etc.
1. Lovely Weather
Nice weather is a big plus when you come to Vietnam and Cambodia from February to April, as every part of both countries experiences moderate temperatures, less rain, and extended sunshine hours during this time.
Northern and Central Vietnam: In February, it would be springtime in Northern and Central Vietnam with a mean temperature of 18°C and gradually warm up in later months. Within this time, the sky is unclouded, while the sun gloriously shines on average 4 hours per day, giving tourists a bright and optimistic vibe when visiting the area.
Halong Bay (Vietnam) In The Bright And Chill Vibe Of Springtime
Southern Vietnam and Cambodia: Dry season in Cambodia and the South of Vietnam starts from mid November and ends in late April. This means that you could freely explore both areas’ awe-inspiring landscapes under dry, warm weather conditions between February and April.
Angkor Wat (Cambodia) In The Dry Season
2. Breathtaking Landscapes In Vietnam And Cambodia
It seems that both countries are in their most beautiful time from February to April, which makes every landscape stunning and attractive.
On coming to Northern Vietnam, you could take your time, marvel at the mountainous view from Mount Fansipan (Sapa), immerse in the scenic spring of Hanoi during a Double-decker Bus City Tour, or enjoy the pristine coastal landscape of Halong Bay on a Halong cruise.
Breathtaking Landscapes And Interesting Activities In Northern Vietnam
During the same time, in Central Vietnam, Hue, Danang, Hoian, and Dalat are also ready to provide you with mesmerizing sceneries of the Citadel, the Golden Bridge, My Son Holy Land, and Mount Liangbiang.
Attractions In Central Vietnam From February To April
In Southern Vietnam and Cambodia, Phu Quoc, Con Dao Island, and Sihanoukville are also full of eye-pleasing landscapes from February to April.
3. Interesting Outdoor Activities
Thanks to dry weather, the time between February and April is ideal for outdoor activities. Tourists would have a chance to enjoy the inexhaustible energy and refresh their minds through activities such as swimming, snorkeling/ scuba-diving, trekking/ hiking, kayaking, cave visiting, cycling, etc.
February To April Is Ideal Time For Outdoor Activities In Vietnam And Cambodia
4. Various Events And Local Festivals
The beginning of the year usually witnesses a great number of festivals held in Vietnam and Cambodia. Some include the Lunar New Year, Khmer New Year, Lim Festival, etc.
Several Events And Festivals Are Held In Vietnam And Cambodia
Below are details about Vietnam - Cambodia big events between February and April:
| Festivals & Events | Time | |
|---|---|---|
| Vietnam | Lim Festival (Bac Ninh) | Mid February |
| Huong Pagoda Festival (Hanoi) | Mid February | |
| Hung King Festival | Late April | |
| Independence Day | 30th April | |
| Cambodia | Chaul Chnam Thmey (Khmer New Year) | Mid-April |
| Bom Chaul Chnam (Water Festival) | 13 - 15th April | |
| Royal Ploughing Ceremony | Late April |
5. More Options For Vietnam - Cambodia Tour
Most Vietnam - Cambodia tours are provided between February and April. Though there are still many tours offered all year round, traveling to Vietnam and Cambodia between February and April, you will be provided with a wider range of options.
February To April Is The Peak Season In Vietnam And Cambodia Thus More Tours
Should I Travel To Vietnam And Cambodia In Other Months?
February to April is the best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia in terms of all factors (weather, activities, etc). Yet, you could still travel to the countries in other months. Below are some recommended months of the year to go to Vietnam and Cambodia, based on particular demands and preferences:
1. From May to June: Best Months for Beach Lovers
If you are a beach lover, the best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia could be between June and July. During these months, Central Vietnam enters summertime with dry sunny weather, ideal for immersing in the cool water of My Khe Beach (Danang) or Dai Lanh beaches (Nha Trang).
Besides, a variety of water sports like snorkeling, parasailing, surfing, jet skiing, etc. would be offered there, allowing you to get the most out of Central Vietnam’s summer.
Skiing in Nha Trang Beach (Central Vietnam)
Though not as good as Central Vietnam’s, weather in other regions between May and June is still good enough for tourism activities. During these months, the North and South of Vietnam, plus Cambodia are in the early wet season, featuring high humidity and rainfall. Heavy rains or storms could set in occasionally and predictably, so it would be fine if you remain updated with the weather forecast during this time.
May To June Could Witness Random Rains In Other Parts Of Vietnam And Cambodia
2. From October to November: Immerse in Northern Vietnam’s Autumn
Besides spring, it is also recommended to visit Hanoi and Halong Bay in autumn (October to November). During this time, you could enjoy cool breezes and random drizzles, while immersing in the serenity of Hanoi’s street corners or Halong’s limestone karsts.
October To November Is Ideal For Sightseeing In Northern Vietnam
October to November is also the end of the rainy season in both Southern Vietnam and Cambodia, also called the “green season”. The frequency of rain and temperature simultaneously decrease, making it pleasant for tourists to visit both areas. Plus, after months of rain, sceneries in this time would grow greener and more refreshing than ever, providing you with eye-pleasing experiences.
After Rainy Days, The Air Would Be Refreshing And Landscapes Would Be Lively In Southern Vietnam And Cambodia
A downside of visiting Vietnam and Cambodia from October to November is that Central Vietnam would be in the middle of storm season, making beach bathing and water activities restricted. Yet, it could be fine if these activities are not your priority and you stay informed about weather patterns during the trip
Storms And Floods Could Set In Between October To November In Central Vietnam
3. From December to January: Best Time for Mekong Cruises
From December to January, weather in Northern and Central Vietnam would be a bit harsh with extremely low temperatures and high frequencies of rain. However, if you only travel to Southern Vietnam and Cambodia, and plan to opt for a Mekong cruise, December and January could be the ideal time.
During these months, the Mekong River and Mekong Delta areas (My Tho, Cai Be, Tan Chau, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, etc.) would be in the early dry season. In particular, the temperature and frequency of rain by December is fairly low, while there are still cool breezes during the rainy season. Such weather conditions could make your Mekong cruise tour more pleasant and interesting.
December To January Is The Best Time To Cruise Along the Mekong River
December to January is also the best time for people who love flowers to visit Vietnam and Cambodia, as the Dalat Flower Festival takes place in mid-December, presenting thousands of artworks made from colorful flowers.
Remember To Drop By Dalat Flower Festival In December
Above are recommendations on the best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia from BestPrice Travel. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us for more relevant information and precise decision-making.
Recommended Vietnam and Cambodia Itineraries
Below are some suggested Vietnam and Cambodia itineraries for you to get the most out of your trip:
1. Vietnam and Cambodia Itinerary 7 - 10 Days
| Destinations: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap Highlights:
|
Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary 7 - 10 days is designed for tourists to have a glance at both countries in a short period of time. In fact, it focuses on providing you with the most renowned destinations and featured activities in Vietnam and Cambodia.
Enjoy Tea Ceremony On A Halong Bay Cruise
Currently, BestPrice Travel is offering three tours that follow a 7 - 10-day itinerary, including:
- From South Vietnam to North Cambodia 8 days: US $763 /pax
- Aboard Mekong Eyes Cruise and Highlights of Cambodia 8 days: US $1213 /pax
- Vietnam and Cambodia at a Glance 9 days: US $1080 /pax
2. Vietnam and Cambodia Itinerary 2 Weeks
| Destinations: Hanoi - Sapa - Halong Bay - Hoi An - Hue - Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap Highlights:
|
While the 7 - 10-day itinerary focuses on Southern Vietnam, Vietnam, and Cambodia itinerary 2 weeks would include trips to Northern and Central provinces. This allows tourists to experience diverse types of landscapes, weather patterns, and local activities rather than just being limited to Southern Vietnam and Cambodia, which are quite similar in terms of mentioned categories.
Sapa trekking tours are included in Vietnam and Cambodia 2-week itineraries
Tours following 2-week itinerary by BestPrice Travel include:
- Best of Vietnam and Cambodia 15 days: US $1432/ pax
- Highlights of Vietnam and Cambodia 14 days: US $1354 /pax
- Incredible Luxury Vietnam and Cambodia Holiday 2 Weeks: US $1847 /pax
- Romance of Vietnam & Cambodia from Mekong Delta to Angkor Wat 13 days: US $1641 /pax
3. Vietnam and Cambodia Itinerary 3 Weeks
| Destinations: Hanoi - Sapa - Mai Chau - Ninh Binh - Halong Bay - Hue - Danang - Hoi An - Phnom Penh - Battambang - Siem Reap Highlights:
|
On following a Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary for 3 weeks, not only would you be taken deep into every corner of each destination, but you also have a chance to participate in many off-the-beaten-track activities in both countries.
A Full Day Excursion To Tam Coc (Ninh Binh) Within Vietnam And Cambodia 3 Week Trip
Below are some recommended 3-week Vietnam and Cambodia tours:
- Essential Vietnam and Cambodia 17 days; US $1661 /pax
- Vietnam and Cambodia Grand Discovery 3 Weeks: US $2155 /pax
- Deep Insight Vietnam and Cambodia 24 days: US $2023 /pax
FAQ about the best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia
1. What is the best time to visit Cambodia?
November to April is unusually considered as the best time to travel to Cambodia, as the country would be in its dry season then, pretty favorable for tourists’ activities.
>> For more further information, please go to Best time to visit Cambodia
2. What is the best month to travel to Vietnam?
Some would suggest that the best time to visit Vietnam is during spring (Feb - April) and Autumn (Aug - Oct). Yet, as Vietnam’s weather varies in regions, it would not be the one-size-fits-all answer.
For more relevant information and precise decision-making, you should plan your destinations in Vietnam first, then come to Best Time to Visit Vietnam: All You Need to Know.
3. When is the peak season in Vietnam and Cambodia?
The peak season in Vietnam and Cambodia is from December to April, as there are many festivals and events held during these months. If you are not into crowded places, the best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia is between late April to May.
4. What is it like in Vietnam and Cambodia during the wet season?
August to September is the peak of the rainy season in both Vietnam and Cambodia with a high chance of heavy rains and storms. Though considered as the least recommended time to visit both countries, these months could be fine indeed if your itinerary mainly covers inland attractions and less coastal regions.
5. What is the best time to visit Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos/ Thailand?
The best time to visit Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, or Thailand is also from February to May. As Laos and Thailand feature quite the same weather patterns as the others, it could be no problem if you include one or both of them in your Vietnam - Cambodia journey.
In conclusion, the best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia is from February to April, as the weather in these months would be the most favorable for all activities in both countries. Besides, there are still other beautiful times to visit these countries, such as from May to June, October to November, and December to January.
If you cannot decide when to travel to Vietnam and Cambodia or do not know how to plan your trip, please contact us - BestPrice Travel. We are always available to support you.
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